RE: 3channel a really needed to learn?
Hi John,
I think the wing dragon 4 can be bought with a three channel wing, then you strap on the 4 channel wing later. Other options, although not RTF (although maybe you can get them done that way in the states) are Minimag from Multiplex - tough little 4 channel. GWS Estarter and Tigermoth both can be made to do some fun stuff as well.
By the way, if you are find 3 channel RET boring do be a little careful about 3 channel AET (like swift and PZ warbirds) - it can get limiting as well. Oh, and if you are finding the flying boring turn on some wind - a lot of wind. And of course when you say fly until you get boared you are including landings right? I also note you mention the PZ p51 - that plane in particular it would be good to stay clear of - tricky to fly, but probably more importantly, tricky to launch.
Understand your point about not having money to blow on two planes. Dare I suggest it but that makes it *really* important that you don't buy something beyond you which you turn into a pile of foam 5 seconds later.
Cheers,
Oz.